Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the 2023 Swissvale Edible Garden Tour start?
Anywhere you want! This event is CYOA (Choose-Your-Own-Adventure) -- check out the map and pick where you would like to start. A hard copy of the map is available during the event at an Info Table at the Swissvale Farmers Market (9AM-2PM) and inside at the Carnegie Free Library of Swissvale (10AM-2PM). Start at any time between 10 and 2 (okay, maybe 1:30, so you have time for at least a couple!). Go to as many or as few gardens as you like and in any order that you choose.
Who is leading the tour? Do I go with a group?
This event is CYOA (Choose-Your-Own-Adventure). You are free to roam on your own or with friends, family, and fellow tour-goers. Go to as many or as few gardens as you like and in any order that you choose. At each stop, the garden’s tender will be available to show you around, answer questions, and provide info and insights into their garden specialties.
What does the 2023 Swissvale Edible Garden Tour cost?
The 2023 Swissvale Edible Garden Tour is entirely FREE, thanks to our generous sponsors and the work of a bunch of volunteers. If you are inspired to donate, you can do that here online and you will find information on how to do so at the Info Table at the Swissvale Farmers Market.
Where can I get the event guide?
Printed guides will be available during the event at the Swissvale Farmer’s Market and the Carnegie Free Library of Swissvale. All of the information within the guide will also be available digitally on our website.
Are there bus stops nearby?
Yes! The following bus routes serve Swissvale on weekends: P1, 59, 61a, 61b.
How do I get around? Do I walk or bike or drive or what?
That is entirely up to you. This event is CYOA (Choose-Your-Own-Adventure). You may use any mode of transport you want. If you decide to drive, please be mindful of residential parking restrictions, including fire hydrants, driveways, and accessible parking spaces, so the neighbors don’t hate us. If you choose to bike or walk, be aware that Swissvale is no stranger to hills like much of the region. No matter what, we encourage tour-goers to pace themselves and bring a reusable water bottle.
Are there bathrooms?
There are porta-potties at the Swissvale Farmers Market, located at 7301 Schoyer Ave.
Are there refreshments?
During the tour:
Some hosts may put out some light snacks, but they are not required to. We will have a few water stations marked on the map. We will provide cups, but we recommend tour-goers bring their reusable water bottles.
We also encourage you to support local Swissvale businesses marked on your map:
The Pub in the Park is open for drinks and food from 11am to 2am.
Parisi Cafe & Italian Market is selling a hot or iced Lavender Latte special.
The Still Mill Distillery and Tap Room will have garden-themed cocktail specials.
Swissvale Dari-Delite always has great cool treats!
Bombay to Burgh is a great new restaurant featuring Indian cuisine.
At the Picnic (2:30-5:00 at the Swissvale Farmers Market - 7301 Schoyer Ave) there will be lots of food and drink! Think picnic foods, plus some generous donations from local businesses. You’re welcome to bring a dish, but it’s not required.
Can I pick things in the gardens?
At the Swissvale Community Garden, you are welcome and encouraged to pick anything ripe and ready to be harvested. At all other stops we ask you to refrain from picking anything unless given explicit permission by the garden host.
Do I have to wear a mask?
All tour activities are outside, and therefore, masks are not required (unless otherwise indicated), per current CDC guidelines and state mandates. We ask that everyone be respectful of garden hosts and other guests if they wear a mask or ask to maintain physical distance. You are welcome to wear a mask if it makes you feel safer and more comfortable.
Can I donate?
Thank you for considering contributing. There will be tip containers at each stop to collect cash donations or you are welcome to donate online.
Is there anything for sale?
Besides food and drink mentioned above, you can buy handmade and up-cycled T-shirts and stickers at the Swissvale Farmers Market from 9-2pm.
Can I bring my dog?
Because of the possibility of garden hosts having their dogs or cats on-site and the unpredictable number of people at each stop, we recommend that your four-legged friends stay home. We love dogs and make this recommendation for their safety and comfort.
What's next?
Keep the conversations going! Follow @SwissvaleYinz on Facebook and Instagram and join the Facebook group SAGE: Swissvale Area Gardening Enthusiasts to share comments and questions about all things gardening.
We’d also love to see your pictures of the event! Tag us on social media or email them to swissvalegardens@gmail.com.